Cooking method
Follow these steps to create your Slow Cooker Cream Cheese Chicken Chili:
- Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker.
- Next, add the black beans, kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and green chilies.
- In a small bowl, mix together the ranch seasoning, chili powder, cumin, and paprika—then sprinkle this mixture over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
- Pour the chicken broth over everything and give it a gentle stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- As you approach the end of cooking, take the chicken out and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
- Finally, stir in the cubed cream cheese until it’s fully melted and incorporated. Season with salt and black pepper to your taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and shredded cheddar cheese if you desire.
Best ways to enjoy it
This chili can be served in a variety of ways! Here are some delicious suggestions:
- Ladle it into deep bowls and sprinkle with fresh cilantro and a handful of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Serve alongside warm cornbread or tortilla chips for dipping.
- Pair it with a light green salad to balance out the richness of the chili.
- For a fun twist, try topping it with avocado slices or a dollop of sour cream.
Storage and reheating tips
This recipe makes a generous amount of chili, perfect for leftovers! Here’s how to store it for future enjoyment:
- Let the chili cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container.
- It can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- For longer storage, freeze it in individual portions for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool completely first.
- When reheating, use the microwave or reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if it seems too thick.
Helpful cooking tips
- Make sure to use a good-quality chicken broth for maximum flavor.
- If you want to spice things up, consider adding a diced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce.
- For a lighter version, swap the cream cheese for Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream alternative.
- If you’re in a hurry, consider cooking the chili on high for a shorter duration, just make sure the chicken is thoroughly cooked.
Creative twists
While this recipe is fantastic as-is, here are some ways to mix things up:
- Experiment with different beans, such as pinto or cannellini beans.
- Swap in ground turkey or beef instead of chicken for a different protein option.
- Add more veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for an even heartier dish.
- For a vegetarian version, simply replace the chicken with chickpeas and use vegetable broth.
Common questions
How long does prep take?
Prep for this dish is minimal; it typically takes about 15-20 minutes to gather and prepare your ingredients.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes! You can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to increase the cooking time by an hour or so to ensure they’re cooked through.
How do I know when it’s done?
The chili is done cooking when the chicken is fully cooked and shreds easily, and the beans are heated through.
Is this chili gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients are gluten-free, but always check your seasoning packets just to be safe!
Incorporating Slow Cooker Cream Cheese Chicken Chili into your meal rotation will not only simplify weeknight dinners but also satisfy your family’s taste buds. Give it a try, and you’ll see why this recipe has earned its place among the best comfort foods!
